Canadian Cancer Society statement about death of Gord Downie

18 October 2017

Toronto -

The Canadian Cancer Society (CCS) is deeply saddened to hear of the death of musician Gord Downie from brain cancer.

“Gord Downie was a beloved national icon and a true inspiration to many Canadians, including those whose lives have been impacted by cancer,” says Lynne Hudson, president and CEO of CCS. "We are grateful to Mr. Downie and to the Tragically Hip for their efforts to raise awareness and funds for brain cancer research and clinical trials in Canada. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this time of tremendous loss.”

With the support of our generous donors, CCS will continue fund promising brain cancer research and clinical trials. Canadians everywhere can continue to raise money to help fund this work by supporting research and innovations in treatments. To donate, please visit www.cancer.ca/brainresearch.

About the Tragically Hip’s support of the brain cancer cause

After the Tragically Hip’s 2016 Man Machine Poem tour, CCS received almost $400,000 in honour of Gord Downie and the Tragically Hip. These funds are being used to support clinical trials at the Canadian Cancer Trials Group, an internationally-renowned cooperative oncology group based out of Queen’s University in the band’s hometown of Kingston, Ontario. The group coordinates clinical trials in cancer therapy, supportive care and prevention at cancer centres and hospitals across the country.

About the Canadian Cancer Society

The Canadian Cancer Society is a national, community-based organization whose mission is to eradicate cancer and enhance the quality of life of people living with cancer. Thanks to our donors and volunteers, CCS has the most impact, against the most cancers, in the most communities in Canada. Building on our progress, we are working with Canadians to change cancer forever. For more information, visit cancer.ca or call our toll-free bilingual Cancer Information Service at 1-888-939-3333 (TTY 1-866-786-3934).